Buffalo Bills nab a slot corner with return ability in Penn State CB Daequan Hardy

Another major athlete added to the Bills draft pick allotment

The Buffalo Bills found themselves a developmental backup slot corner late in the sixth round at pick No. 219 overall with Penn State CB Daequan Hardy. He tested off the charts, and that shows up on his film as a nickel player for the Nittany Lions.

He’s not a big player at just 5’9” and 180 pounds with 30” arms, but he’s able to make up for some of that with his explosion and willingness to play with some nasty despite the limitations in size. He’s also proven himself as a fantastic punt returner in college with zero fumbles in 2023 and two touchdowns accounted for. Hardy also has experience on the coverage teams on special teams — adding to his attractiveness as a prospect.

As noted, his size is a major limitation. There are some things he just isn’t able to accomplish due to the dooming lack of height, weight, and length. That’s the biggest knock and it’s really not something you can improve for him, which is why you see him late in the sixth round.

Hardy will have a good chance to be a decent football player, but that will be dependent on if he can contribute on special teams at a high level early on while tweaking anything he can to mitigate the size concerns.

Overall, the Bills are getting a competitive slot corner with a great deal of athleticism. His ability as an athlete and special teamer will likely keep him afloat in the NFL. Despite his competitive nature, you’ll know if he can sink or swim early on.